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When Stomp contributor Jeannie saw residents gathering in large groups to smoke, drink and even bird watch, she knew something had to be said.
Jeannie informed Stomp about this common occurrence on October 23 and shared photos and a video of what she saw.
In the video, which was taken on October 22, people can be seen loitering around the protected area while music plays in the background.
“These people have been meeting to smoke and watch their caged birds for over a month,” Jeannie said.
“It’s always the same group of people who come together to watch birds.
“They also meet in groups of more than five people and at least two people will smoke near the nursery, which is right behind them.”
“Are they supposed to smoke this close to a nursery?”
He also shared photos of residents who met on October 19 at 10:40 p.m. and mentioned that they often met until midnight.
“This is a common sight at night where people gather, again in groups of more than five, to drink and talk loudly,” added Jeannie.
“This area is a favorite hotspot for smokers and drinkers, as the nearby cafe closes at 10:30 pm.
“I really want to highlight this issue in my neighborhood. Everyone thinks we are out of the woods when we are still in the middle of a pandemic. We still have to remember to stick with safe distancing measures.
“Smoking is also a big problem in my neighborhood. People smoke near daycare, in common hallways and in the cafeteria.
[[nid:484184]]“Worst of all, they just throw the cigarette butts on the ground.”
Jeannie added that she has reported this on the OneService app.
In response to a query from Stomp, a spokesperson for the Ang Mo Kio City Council said: “We are aware of the situation and have posted notices in the affected area and the blocks in that neighborhood.
“This is to remind residents to adhere to safe distancing measures and not litter common areas to keep the neighborhood clean and safe for all.”
The spokesperson added that the city council is working closely with relevant government agencies on this response.